Two men face sentencing in connection with an iran assassination plot targeting Iranian-American journalist Masih Alinejad. Prosecutors said the plan came dangerously close to success. In fact, it aimed to kill Alinejad at her Brooklyn residence. Authorities are seeking 55-year prison terms for Rafat Amirov, 46, and Polad Omarov, 41. Moreover, prosecutors described both men as high-ranking figures in the Russian mob. Amirov is of Iranian origin, while Omarov hails from Georgia. However, lawyers for Amirov are requesting a 13-year sentence. Omarov’s legal team has asked for 10 years behind bars.
The convictions followed a two-week trial in March. Testimony included statements from a hired gunman and Alinejad herself. Meanwhile, Alinejad, 49, told supporters she plans to attend the sentencing to deliver her impact statement. Prosecutors said the men were members of the Gulici, a Russian mob faction responsible for killings, extortion, and other crimes globally.
Alinejad became known for her activism, particularly the online campaign encouraging Iranian women to post videos of themselves without head coverings. Prosecutors said Iranian intelligence initially plotted to kidnap her in 2020 and 2021. The goal was to forcibly bring her to Iran and silence her criticism.
In July 2022, Iran allegedly offered $500,000 for her murder after failed attempts to harass her. In addition, court documents indicate Alinejad became a target due to her efforts exposing Iran’s government corruption and human rights abuses. Prosecutors noted that Amirov and Omarov seemed interested only in financial gain.
The plot narrowly failed because Alinejad was traveling, and law enforcement disrupted the attempt. However, lawyers for Amirov argued his role was minimal. Omarov’s attorneys emphasized he had faced personal threats after a relative’s death connected to criminal networks in Russia and Azerbaijan. Omarov was extradited to the U.S. in February 2024 after detention in the Czech Republic.
Alinejad moved to the U.S. in 2009 after facing bans and closures in Iranian media. She built a large following in New York and launched the My Stealthy Freedom campaign. Moreover, prosecutors continue investigating the case, and additional charges were announced in October 2024 against Iranian officials, who remain at large. Security experts say the iran assassination plot underscores ongoing threats to dissidents abroad.
Analysts warn that such plots can heighten tensions between nations and increase risks for journalists advocating human rights. Therefore, observers expect U.S. authorities to continue monitoring related networks closely. The case highlights the personal and political risks faced by Iranian activists internationally. In addition, Alinejad’s experience demonstrates the reach of international criminal and intelligence networks. Courts and law enforcement officials are expected to remain vigilant in preventing similar attacks.